1990 - 2002 SL yearly updates

[marlboro]

Does anybody have information on the updates to the SL on a yearly basis since introduction? ie new lights, different engine, interior styling, etc.

Thanks.

[elau]

You can get those information from MBUSA web site. It has all the technical data on the R129 since its inception 1989.

[marlboro]

that shows the features for each year, but i was hoping that there was some information about the incremental differences from year to year. ie from 96 to 97, changed rear taillights. (actually, i don't really know if this was true, but this is the information that I am hoping to get.) etc.

[elau]

Marlboro,
I don't recall there is very much change from year to year. Generally, MB only offered different color and color combinations. For example, the two tones that you see are generally 89-95 models. They change the wheels, steering wheel, door panels, side rocker panels and the front spoiler for the 96 model and up. And if memory serves me correctly, they added a map net on the passenger side, side airbag and Xeon (sp?) headlight in the 98 and up model. MB does not add much changes to the R129 too often and that's why they retain the resale value. Unless you own one its very hard to distinguish from one year to the next.

[MBenzNL]

The biggest change was in 1995 when mercedes changed the bumpers, lower body mouldings, skirts, grill, and the seat upholstery.
The second major update was in 1999, when mercedes changed the taillights, side mirrors and the door handles (painted) + muffler...

In the meanwhile mercedes had some other changes doe to the R129...but smaller and less obvious...

here are some pics of my 1990 300SL that has been updated into a 1995 model and wil be updated into a 1999 model once I can find the time:

the MBenz R129 pictures

greetingz,

Wasn't the five speed automatic transmission a big improvement beginning with the '96 model?

Len